A play that seriously examines the issues facing today’s elderly is a rarity. A play that does this and has 65-year-old characters doing back flips is even rarer.
TriArts, Inc.’s production of “Hfobble,” pronounced ‘hobble,’ is an insightful look at the golden years. Performed in the style of commedia dell’arte and running through Dec. 1 at the Stage Left Theatre, “Hfobble” skillfully balances humor, compassion and social commentary.
Commedia dell’arte is a theatrical style that flourished in 16th-century Italy. It often features improvisation, physical comedy, stock characters and actors in masks. This energetic style might seem odd for approaching the issue of aging, but cast member Anthony Coarser doesn’t think so.
“Commedia lends itself to dealing with sensitive topics,” Coarser said.
He also said that has been effective in dealing with social and political issues.
“Commedia was like ‘The Daily Show’ of its time,” he said. “It was the only way you could get out political satire.”
The five-member cast, ranging from 25 to 30 years old, plays characters ranging from old to young, good to evil, human to canine. Following the tradition of commedia, many wear masks.
Coarser plays Walter, a kind man with a sweet tooth. He spends his time with fellow seniors Ruby (Allison Latta) and Gert (Noel Williams) at Hfobble House, a center for the elderly.
The main conflict occurs when Reginald Pennywhistle, a sinister man played by Bryce Somerville, plots to steal the social security of his fellow senior citizens. His goal is to wipe out Hfobble House and other nonprofits.
In “Hfobble,” the term “social security” represents not a monthly check but something that gives meaning to life. Reginald is stealing something much greater than money: the dignity, passion and humanity of Walter, Ruby and Gert.
The idea of redefining social security came from interactions the cast members (who also conceived and created the show) had with senior citizens in Chicago. From June through October, the cast spent time with senior citizens at Renaissance Court, a center for the senior community.
